Breast Enlargement

Breast enlargement or augmentation is one of the most common cosmetic surgical procedures carried out in the UK. It involves the insertion of silicone implants under the breast through a short scar.

Who is suitable for breast augmentation?

Most women who desire a fuller bust are suitable for breast augmentation. The most common age groups for breast augmentation are younger women who are dissatisfied with the size of their breasts and also women whose breasts have deflated after childbirth although women outside of these two groups may also benefit.

How do I choose type and size of implant?

The size of the implant is determined by the size of the existing breast and the patient’s preferred volume which is decided by the use of sizers (implants of different volumes put in the bra to estimate the best size). There are two broad types of implant shape – round or anatomical and there are further variants of each type, which will be discussed with you at your consultation. The next decision is whether to place the implant under the breast tissue alone, under the pectoralis muscle or ‘dual-plane’ which means partly under the muscle, partly under the breast. The exact combination of implant type and surgical technique is tailored to the individual’s anatomy and aspirations.

What does the operation involve?

The procedure begins with carefully marking the breasts. The operation is performed under general anaesthesia. The operation takes 60 to 90 minutes. An incision is made most commonly under the breast. The implant is inserted through this incision and carefully positioned, Absorbable sutures are used to close the wound and supportive dressings applied.

What happens after the operation?

Normally you will be able to go home the same day. You will experience some pain for which you will be given pain relief. You will have a wound review at one week after the surgery. Depending on the type of work you do, we advise you take 1-2 weeks off work and refrain from any strenuous activity or exercise for 6 weeks.

The final breast shape and implant position will become evident by 3-6 months after the surgery however most swelling will have resolved by 3 months.

How long do the results last?

Breast augmentation has an immediate effect however the breast shape will change throughout your life depending on weight fluctuations and breast feeding. Most implants have a life time guarantee which means they can safely remain in your body for your whole life. However, your breasts inevitably will droop with ageing and you may want further surgery to lift the breasts or change the size of the implants.

What are the risks of breast augmentation?

Generally breast augmentation is a safe procedure with very low complication rates. Risks include bleeding, infection, prominent scars, asymmetry, capsular contracture (hardening of the implant – about 10% of patients) and concerns about the shape.

This patient wanted to correct her breast asymmetry as well as enlarge both breasts. She had enough breast volume to hide the implants so I put them on top of the muscle. I selected a round 250cc implant for the larger left breast and a 300c round implant for the right breast. Result at 3 months.

To view full images please click on the thumbnails below (gallery will open in a pop-up window).

This patient wanted larger breasts but wanted a very natural shape in keeping with the rest of her body. I recommended relatively small round implants – 270cc.
The patient was very slim so I put the implants under the muscle so the upper edge of the implants could not be seen. Results at 2 months.

To view full images please click on the thumbnails below (gallery will open in a pop-up window).